ink
4 synonyms for ink, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A colored liquid used for writing, drawing, or printing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use ink
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ink a deal
get some ink
black ink
ink cartridge
Etymology
From Old French enque, ultimately from Greek enkauston, "burned in" — the purple ink Roman emperors used to sign documents.
Full origin of ink →Frequently asked questions
What does “ink” mean?
The word “ink” means a colored liquid used for writing, drawing, or printing. In plain terms, the liquid used for writing or printing — also slang for tattoos, and a verb for signing a deal.
How do you pronounce “ink”?
“Ink” is pronounced IHNGK (/ˈɪŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “ink” in a sentence?
Here is “ink” used in a sentence: “The pen had run out of ink.”
What part of speech is “ink”?
Depending on how it is used, “ink” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “ink” come from?
The word “ink” comes from Old French. From Old French enque, ultimately from Greek enkauston, "burned in" — the purple ink Roman emperors used to sign documents.
Is “ink” a common word?
“Ink” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “ink” have?
“Ink” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a colored liquid used for writing, drawing, or printing.
Is ink countable or uncountable?
Ink is normally uncountable: you buy some ink, a bottle of ink, or a cartridge of ink, not "an ink." The plural inks is used for distinct types or colors, as in "this printer uses four inks."
